Streaming Device Connected to TV or Soundbar: Which Gives Better Audio?

A streaming device can connect either to the TV or directly to a soundbar. In most current systems, connect it to the TV and return audio through HDMI eARC. Connect it directly to the soundbar when the TV cannot pass the audio format you want—but only if the soundbar supports the video resolution, HDR, and refresh-rate features your TV needs.

Device to TV: usually best for picture compatibility

Connecting a streaming stick or box to the TV keeps the video path short and uses the TV’s newest HDMI inputs. This is usually best when you care about 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, high refresh rates, or gaming features. The TV then sends audio back to the soundbar using its HDMI eARC or ARC port.

For this route, set the TV audio output to HDMI eARC/ARC, Receiver, or External Speakers. If the TV provides Auto, Pass-Through, or Bitstream, use it rather than forcing PCM. This gives the TV the best chance to send Dolby audio onward without converting it first.

Device to soundbar: helpful when TV pass-through is limited

Connecting the streamer directly to the soundbar can avoid an older TV that reduces audio to stereo or fails to pass Dolby formats. The soundbar decodes the audio first, then passes video through to the TV. This can be an excellent option for an ARC-only television that will not deliver reliable surround sound.

The tradeoff is video compatibility. Check the soundbar’s HDMI input and pass-through specifications. An older soundbar may pass 4K at 60Hz but not a newer HDR format or higher refresh rate. If video features disappear after moving the streamer, return it to the TV and use eARC if available.

ARC versus eARC matters

eARC has more bandwidth and is the stronger choice for sending advanced audio from the TV to the soundbar. Standard ARC works well for many setups, including stereo and common Dolby Digital use, but an eARC path is more dependable when you want the best available formats. Read Soundbar eARC Not Working? Fix the Connection Step by Step if the TV recognizes the soundbar but audio is missing.

Decide using this quick checklist

1. Connect the streamer to the TV first when the TV has eARC and the soundbar receives the expected audio.
2. Use a soundbar HDMI input when the TV limits audio formats, but confirm the soundbar supports your video requirements.
3. Use certified high-speed HDMI cables for reliable testing.
4. Set the TV to external speakers and Pass-Through, Auto, or Bitstream when available.
5. Restart the TV, streamer, and soundbar after changing the cable route so HDMI can exchange capability information again.

Why a soundbar may only show PCM

If the soundbar displays PCM, the streamer or TV may be converting audio before it reaches the soundbar. This can be normal for stereo content, but when you expect surround sound, inspect the streamer audio menu and TV output menu. Use Auto, Best Available, Dolby Audio, or Bitstream where appropriate; avoid forcing PCM unless it is the only stable solution.

See Soundbar Works With a Cable Box but Not TV Apps? Fix the Audio for a similar TV-output issue, and see Dolby Atmos Not Working on a Soundbar? Fix the Setup for format-specific checks.

When direct-to-soundbar is not worth it

Keep the streamer connected to the TV when direct-to-soundbar routing removes video features you value, introduces black screens, or creates a slower HDMI handshake. A modern TV with eARC is usually designed to handle the video while returning suitable audio to the soundbar. A 4K streaming media player should be connected in the route that preserves both the picture and audio you actually use.

Frequently asked questions

Should I plug my streaming device into the TV or soundbar?

Use the TV first when it has eARC and preserves the audio you need. Use the soundbar input when the TV limits audio formats and the soundbar supports your required video pass-through.

Does connecting to a soundbar improve audio?

It can bypass a TV pass-through limitation. It does not improve the source audio by itself, and it may limit video features if the soundbar HDMI input is older.

Can ARC pass Dolby Atmos?

Compatibility varies. eARC is the more dependable route for advanced audio. Standard ARC can still provide reliable sound, including common Dolby formats, in many systems.

AAHE may earn compensation as an Amazon Associate from qualifying purchases.